10 Things to Do Before the 2021 iPad Pro Release Date

The 2021 iPad Pro release date looks like it will land soon. If you’re interested in buying a new iPad Pro, there are some things you should do before the new models arrive.

If you’re in the market for a new tablet, Apple’s iPad Pro line should be somewhere on your list. And while the 2020 iPad Pro and 2018 iPad Pro models are excellent options, some of you might want to hang around to see what Apple’s got up its sleeve in 2021.

Nothing is confirmed, but numerous sources believe Apple will unveil new iPad Pro models in 2021. The new iPad Pro will reportedly come with several upgrades including a mini-LED display, 5G support, and more.

We’ve seen a few different 2021 iPad Pro release dates, but most credible sources point to an arrival in the first half of the year with April 20th now the most likely candidate for the device’s release date.

Apple’s confirmed a “Spring Loaded” event for April 20th and it’s there that we’ll almost certainly see the new iPad Pro models make their long awaited debut.

In a new report, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman claims the new iPad Pros are on track for April, but that they will face stock shortages.

We’ve also seen a purported accessory for a new 11-inch iPad model appear at a retailer. Most iPad Pro rumors have centered on a 12.9-inch model, but Apple will likely update the smaller iPad Pro as well.

With the 2021 iPad Pro release date getting close, taking some steps ahead of time will ensure that you’re fully prepared to buy one when the time comes.

• Track 2021 iPad Pro Rumors
• Get Familiar with iPadOS 14
• Research iPad Pro Accessories
• Figure Out How Much Storage You Need
• Look Into Other iPads
• Look Into iPad Pro Alternatives
• Make a Plan for Your Current Tablet
• Research AppleCare
• Research Carriers
• Start Backing Up Your Data

In this guide we’ll take prospective 2021 iPad Pro buyers through some steps to take as we wait for additional rumors and Apple’s announcements.

Track 2021 iPad Pro Rumors

If you’re interested in buying a new iPad Pro in 2021, you’ll want to track the latest rumors as we push toward the rumored release date.

Apple does its best to keep new products in the shadows, but rumors and leaks are inevitable and we’ve seen numerous iPad Pro rumors emerge.

Rumors will fill in many of the blanks ahead of the device’s release and these rumors will help you set proper expectations as we close in on Apple’s next launch event. If you set proper expectations, you’ll avoid disappointment.

In addition to keeping an eye out for hardware and software rumors, you’ll also want to keep an eye out for supply chain rumors.

According to Nikkei Asia, iPad and MacBook production has been delayed due to the global chip shortage. The report states that iPad assembly is complicated by a “shortage of displays and display components.”

This doesn’t confirm anything, and the report doesn’t call out the new iPad Pros by name, but we could certainly see shortages at launch. Again, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman is saying the top-tier iPad Pro (the 12.9-inch model) is “facing production issues that could lead to short initial supplies of the new device.”

If you want to avoid long shipping times, you’ll want to put in a pre-order when the time comes.

Get Familiar with iPadOS 14

If you haven’t done so already, we recommend getting comfortable with the software that will power the new iPad Pro.

iPadOS 14 is widely available which means you can try it out on your current iPad, if you own one, well ahead of Apple’s announcements.

Doing so will help you get familiar with the user interface and its features and it will help you avoid surprises when you open up your new iPad for the first time.

For more on iPadOS 14, have a look at our walkthrough.

Research iPad Pro Accessories

As we speed toward the 2021 iPad Pro’s rumored release, you’ll want to get familiar with the best iPad Pro accessories. This way you’ll know exactly what to buy, and how much to spend, if you decide you want some extras.

We recommend reading reviews and digging into the best iPad Pro accessories before Apple makes its announcements. Accessories like Apple’s Pencil could drastically alter how you use your tablet.

You should get a feel for potential costs, dig into the pros and cons of each manufacturer, and find styles that appeal to you.

Decide How Much Storage You Need

You should figure out how much storage you might need ahead of time.

We haven’t seen any 2021 iPad Pro storage rumors which means we may not see any substantial changes to the device’s capacity this year. If that’s the case, you’ll have four options: 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.

Selecting the correct storage capacity will help you save money and avoid headaches down the line. While some of you will be fine with the least amount of storage, others will want the peace of mind that comes with having more internal space available.

If you’re unsure about what you might need, take a look at our guide to picking the best iPad Pro storage size.

Look Into Other iPads

Before you decide to wait for the 2021 iPad Pro, make sure you get familiar with Apple’s current iPad models. You might find a device you really like at a price point you love.

First, we recommend taking a long look at the 2020 iPad Pro models. Apple’s 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pros from 2020 are still in excellent shape and we’ve seen some deals knock their prices down a bit.

They don’t pack as much horsepower, but it’s also worth investigating the 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pros from 2018. This is especially true if you’re on a budget as these are much cheaper than the newer models.

If you aren’t married to the iPad Pro line, you’ll also want to check out the latest iPad Air, the iPad mini 5, and the budget-minded 10.2-inch iPad.

All of these devices are holding up quite well in 2021 and all of them run Apple’s iPadOS 14 software.

While the new 2021 iPad Pro is certainly exciting, a lot of you might be fine going with a tablet from Apple’s current crop.

Look at Other iPad Pro Alternatives

If you aren’t committed to buying an iPad, make sure you check out the best iPad Pro alternatives in the buildup to the release. Here are a few we recommend:

• Samsung Galaxy Tab S7
• Samsung Galaxy Tab S6
• Microsoft Surface Pro 7
• Microsoft Surface Book 3

You might also want to take a peek at cheaper tablets like Amazon’s Fire HD 10.

Make a Plan for Your Current Tablet

If you’re intent on upgrading to a new iPad Pro, start making a plan for your current tablet.

Some of you might know of a friend or relative who could benefit from owning an iPad. Ask around and see if anyone might need a hand-me-down in the near future. You might also look into donating your tablet to charity.

If you plan on selling your current device to help offset the cost of your new iPad, you’ll want to dig into prices at resellers like NextWorth.

You’ll also want to keep the device in pristine condition because that’s how you’ll get the most money back from those resellers, your carrier, or Apple when you apply for a trade-in.

At least one analyst believes Apple the new iPad Pro models will be more expensive than their predecessors though it’s unclear how big of a difference (if there is one) will be.

Either way, the new models will be expensive so if you want to save some cash, you’ll want to have a plan in place.

Research AppleCare

If you’re planning to buy an iPad Pro in 2021, you’ll want to protect your investment.

All iPads come with a standard warranty, but AppleCare is an extended warranty service that delivers better support. If you aren’t familiar with AppleCare’s service and its benefits, you should research them. You should also look into AppleCare alternatives.

You will be able to add AppleCare to your bag during the checkout process when you purchase a new iPad. You can also buy it later if you decide you want to wait.

Research Carriers

Again, iPad Pro 2021 rumors point to the addition of 5G connectivity. This is a big deal if you plan to get work done on your iPad outside of the house.

If you’re unhappy with your current provider’s coverage or plan, use this time to dig into competitors and see if you can find a better fit.

Each carrier has its pros and cons, but you might find one that stands out. If you’re interested in switching carriers, please take a look at our guides covering AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon.

Start Backing Up Your Data

If you aren’t in the habit of regularly backing up your current device’s data, now would be a good time to start.

When you open up your iPad Pro you’ll start with a blank slate. If you plan to start from scratch, skip this tip. However, if you’re looking to bring all of your contacts, photos, and other files over to your new device, you’ll want to make a backup.

Backing up the files stored on your current iPad could take awhile. For instance, backing up a near-full 64GB device can take 30 minutes or more.

Making a backup before your new device arrives will allow you to quickly make the transition from your old iPad to your brand new one.

If you’re planning to trade in your current iPad, this will also help you get it sent in faster. The faster you send it in, the faster you’ll get money back.

If you want to learn more about the backup process, check out Apple’s guide. And if you want to learn more about the transfer process, take a look at this guide.

Wait Because the iPad Pro 2021 Release Date Is Close

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The 2021 iPad Pro release date is heavily rumored for April so if you can wait a few more days, we recommend doing so. Apple's confirmed a "Spring Loaded" launch event for April 20th and it's there that we'll likely hear about the new iPad Pro models for the first time.  Bloomberg reporter Mark Gurman, a reputable source, says the new iPad Pro models will launch in the latter half of April.  According to Nikkei Asia, iPad and MacBook production has been delayed due to the global chip shortage. The report states that iPad assembly is complicated by a "shortage of displays and display components."  Gurman's saying the top-tier iPad Pro (the 12.9-inch model) is "facing production issues that could lead to short initial supplies of the new device." If you're interested in a top-of-the-line iPad Pro, think about holding out for a little while longer. And if you want one ASAP, you'll probably want to put in a pre-order.

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